Renovation and extension of the Baths of Géronde / NAU Architecture + Drexler Guinand Jauslin Architekten

Renovation and extension of the Baths of Géronde / NAU Architecture + Drexler Guinand Jauslin Architekten - Image 2 of 22Renovation and extension of the Baths of Géronde / NAU Architecture + Drexler Guinand Jauslin Architekten - Facade, GardenRenovation and extension of the Baths of Géronde / NAU Architecture + Drexler Guinand Jauslin Architekten - Image 4 of 22Renovation and extension of the Baths of Géronde / NAU Architecture + Drexler Guinand Jauslin Architekten - Image 5 of 22Renovation and extension of the Baths of Géronde / NAU Architecture + Drexler Guinand Jauslin Architekten - More Images+ 17

Renovation and extension of the Baths of Géronde / NAU Architecture + Drexler Guinand Jauslin Architekten - Image 16 of 22
© Roger Frei

Text description provided by the architects. The renovation of the historical outdoor pool complex “Les Bains de Géronde” is designed as a renaturalization of the shore, recreating a sensible connection to the lake. The new pools are conceived as two water surfaces hovering slightly over the lake of Géronde with stairs and boardwalks providing swimmers direct access to the lake. The design of landscape follows organic forms. The shores are re-naturalized using local vegetation such as water lilies, reeds and other indigenous species. The renewed natural landscaping encompasses the swimming area, creating an idyllic setting for the bathing experience.

Renovation and extension of the Baths of Géronde / NAU Architecture + Drexler Guinand Jauslin Architekten - Image 12 of 22
© Roger Frei

The original semicircular changing-room building by Hans Bieri, embedded in the landscape, serves as a second source of inspiration. Two new arms housing the entrance, the service areas and the sanitary spaces extend Bieri’s original horseshoe geometry as a welcoming sign on the west and as a meandrous ramp along the hillside on the east.

Floor Plan

The resulting terrace allows for both the harmonious integration of the new program, and the creation of a roof promenade for strolls around the lake in the off-season, when the baths are closed. The careful restoration of this modernist facility enhances its impact. The material palette, limited to concrete, aluminum and wood, serves as a contemporary counterpart to the historical features. The pioneering spirit of modernist sport architecture informs this sustainable expansion and brings in return the picturesque location of Géronde to the foreground.

Renovation and extension of the Baths of Géronde / NAU Architecture + Drexler Guinand Jauslin Architekten - Garden
© Roger Frei

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Project location

Address:Lac de Géronde, 3960 Sierre, Switzerland

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Location to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.
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Cite: "Renovation and extension of the Baths of Géronde / NAU Architecture + Drexler Guinand Jauslin Architekten" 28 Oct 2014. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/557356/renovation-and-extension-of-the-baths-of-geronde-nau-architecture-drexler-guinand-jauslin-architekten> ISSN 0719-8884

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